The Cummington Story (1945)

A re-enacted documentary on the integration of a group of World War II refugees into the life of the small town of Cummington, MA. In Reel 1, the town's clergyman describes the Cummington's initial coolness towards the diffident newcomers. He helps involve the refugees in social, church, and vocational activities. In Reel 2, individual refugees find familiar work in printing, farming, lumbering, and shopkeeping, and begin socializing with their neighbors as a new kind of respect develops on both sides. Included are panoramic views of the countryside in and around the town. Produced by Irving Lerner for the Office of War Information, Overseas Branch. Written and directed by Helen Grayson and Larry Madison, with music by Aaron Copland. Email us at footage@avgeeks.com if you have questions about the footage and are interested in using it in your project.